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Published on: September 28, 2015
[A retinal embolism subsequent to atheroma in aortic arch]
J J Barbón García1, V Rodríguez Blanco, M L Alvarez Suárez
1Servicio de Oftalmología, Hospital San Agustín, Avilés (Asturias), España. jjbarbon@telecable.es
Archivos De La Sociedad Espanola De Oftalmologia
|December 26, 2001
Summary
Atherosclerotic plaques in the aortic arch can cause retinal artery embolism. Trans-esophageal echocardiography can detect these aortic arch lesions, identifying a source of peripheral embolism.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Ophthalmology
- Vascular Surgery
Background:
- Retinal artery embolism is a serious condition that can lead to vision loss.
- Identifying the source of emboli is crucial for effective treatment and prevention.
Observation:
- A patient presented with embolic retinal occlusion.
- The source was traced to a free-floating thrombus originating from an atheromatous plaque in the aortic arch.
Findings:
- Atheroma in the ascending aorta and aortic arch can be a source of retinal emboli.
- Atherosclerotic lesions in the thoracic aorta may shed free-floating thrombi, posing a risk of peripheral embolism.
Implications:
- Trans-esophageal echocardiography can detect thoracic aortic atherosclerotic lesions.
- This imaging modality offers an alternative for identifying embolism sources when cardiac or carotid origins are unclear.
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